What should you know about a growing skin tag?

Skin tags are soft, flesh-coloured or slightly darker growths that often hang from a narrow stalk. Friction, repeated rubbing, or twisting at the base can make one look larger, swollen, or irritated. A true skin tag is usually harmless, but a changing growth may resemble other skin lumps, so appearance alone cannot provide a diagnosis.

A clinician may inspect its surface, attachment, colour, and pattern of change. A lesion that is firm, heavily pigmented, crusted, or growing unevenly may need a closer examination rather than routine cosmetic removal.

Arrange a skin assessment if the growth is new or changing. Until then, avoid cutting, tying off, burning, or applying wart products to it; these actions can cause bleeding, infection, scarring, or make the lesion harder to assess. Keep rubbing to a minimum with comfortable clothing and do not pick at a scab.

If it is confirmed as a skin tag and it is troublesome, options may include clinician-performed snip removal, freezing with [Cryotherapy (Lesion Removal)](/treatments/surgical-dermatology/cryotherapy-lesion-removal/), or heat-based [Electrosurgery](/treatments/surgical-dermatology/electrosurgery/). A dedicated [Skin Tag Removal](/treatments/surgical-dermatology/skin-tag-removal/) consultation can clarify which approach fits its size and position.

Seek prompt medical assessment if the growth bleeds without being rubbed, develops a persistent sore or crust, changes colour quickly, becomes painful, or enlarges noticeably. Arrange earlier review if it is near the eye, on a sensitive area, or repeatedly catches and tears. Urgent care is appropriate for bleeding that does not stop with firm pressure or for spreading redness, warmth, swelling, or fever.

Ask: Does this look like a skin tag or another type of growth? What change makes assessment necessary? Would removal allow the tissue to be examined? Which method is suitable for this location, and how should I care for the area afterward?